Illinois Lawmakers to Tackle Pension Reform (Again)

Governor Pat Quinn has called lawmakers back to Springfield for a one-day special session to reform the state's pension systems.

But so far he doesn't have a plan beyond that.

"We've had proposals this year, we've had a working group this year, we've had discussions and negotiations this year," Quinn said.

"It's time to vote. It's time to show the people where the legislators stand on the foremost fiscal challenge that faces Illinois today, tomorrow or forever."

Quinn said lawmakers already have legislation they should consider. That includes a measure pushed by Senate President John Cullerton (D-Chicago) that addresses two of the state's five pension systems.

Quinn said that's a good start, but he wants a comprehensive deal including a plan that makes suburban Chicago and downstate school districts pay their own pension costs, which the state currently picks up.

Legislative leaders have been deadlocked over how to address the state's $83 billion unfunded liability.